Kobe Luminarie 2016

The Kobe Luminarie has been held every year since 1995. It symbolizes a wish for repose for those lost in the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, which occurred in January the same year. 2016 marked the 22nd observance of the event, featuring giant buildings composed out of nine colors of LED lights.

Shining for the Repose of the Soul

The 2016 theme was "Ode della luce," or "Poetry of light," offering a prayer for the victims of the quake and hope for the future. While the Kobe Luminarie attracted more than 5 million visitors at its peak in the late '90s and early 2000s, visitors numbers have declined to between 3 and 4 million in recent years, resulting in a reduction in duration. Originally running for 12 days each December, the Kobe Luminarie now runs for 10 days, with the 2016 event held from December 2 to 11.

Starting from Kobe's Old Foreign Settlement, passing through the tunnel will take you to Higashi Yuenchi Park, where the vibrant circle of the Spagniera awaits. Step inside and you'll be embraced by light!

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All About's photography guide is a professional photographer who also offers seminars, with tips on techniques from scenery to product shots all over Japan. He studied at the University of Wisconsin and the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. His work in All About Japan focuses on Japanese traditional and pop culture, as well as photography.LinkedIn profile